About Melalan Airport

Melalan Airport (IATA: GHS, ICAO: WALE), also called West Kutai Melalan Airport or Bandar Udara Melalan, serves Melak and Sendawar in West Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan, Indonesia. It is a small regional airport that gives this inland part of Borneo a quick air link to the province's coastal cities, saving many hours on the road or river.

The airfield has roots in the Dutch colonial period and was used for military purposes for decades before regular civil flights began.

Where Melalan Airport Is

The airport is in Barong Tongkok district, about 8 km from Sendawar, the regency seat. Melak, on the Mahakam River, is also within a short drive.

Melalan Airport Terminal and Runway

A compact passenger terminal handles check-in, waiting and baggage claim. The runway was lengthened so the airport can take ATR 72 turboprops, although weight limits can apply on some flights.

Airlines and Routes from West Kutai

Wings Air operates scheduled flights from Melalan Airport to Balikpapan and Samarinda, the two main cities of East Kalimantan. Both give access to wider domestic networks, with Balikpapan offering many connections to Jakarta, Surabaya and other Indonesian cities. Small pioneer-route operators have also served remote destinations in the interior. Frequencies differ by route and day, so check the current timetable.

Getting to and from Melalan Airport

Transport options are local and informal. Travellers usually rely on hotel pick-ups, private cars or rented vehicles with drivers. It is a good idea to arrange a ride before you land, as there may be few waiting vehicles.

Exploring West Kutai

West Kutai is a gateway to the middle reaches of the Mahakam River and to Dayak culture in the interior of East Kalimantan. Visitors come to see traditional longhouses, river life and the forested hills of central Borneo.

Tips for Flying from Melalan Airport

• Expect weather delays: haze and low visibility have disrupted flights here, so allow flexibility in your plans.
• Check baggage limits: turboprop flights often have tighter allowances.
• Arrange transport ahead: book a car or ask your hotel to meet you.

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